SRINAGAR: The indefinite strike by MBBS and BDS interns across Jammu and Kashmir entered its fifth day on Friday as the protesters continued to demand an increase in their monthly stipend, with Chief Minister Omar Abdullah scheduled to meet a five-member delegation later in the day.
The interns are seeking an increase in the monthly stipend from the existing Rs 12,300 to Rs 30,000. The delegation comprises representatives from GMC Srinagar, GMC Anantnag, GMC Jammu and SKIMS.
The interns began their indefinite strike on August 31, withdrawing from routine duties at government medical colleges and hospitals across JK. They have maintained that the stipend has remained unchanged for nearly seven years despite inflation, extended working hours and the responsibilities associated with internship.
Aaqib Ali Khan, a final-year MBBS student at Government Medical College (GMC) Srinagar, told Kashmir Life that the protest would remain peaceful until the government takes a decision on their demand.
“The protest will continue peacefully until the government addresses our demand and provides the necessary financial concurrence to the committee-recommended proposal for enhancement of the stipend,” Khan said.
The protesters have also pointed to differences in stipend amounts between JK and several other States and Union Territories, where medical interns receive higher payments.
They have cited a 2023 committee recommendation proposing an increase in the JK stipend to Rs 25,000, saying the recommendation has not been implemented despite subsequent discussion in the Legislative Assembly.
The stipend demand has received support from political parties across the political spectrum as the government prepares to engage with representatives of the protesting interns.
